Panasonic is set to launch a significant firmware upgrade for its Lumix G9 II camera. This update, labeled as firmware version 2.0, is designed to expand the camera’s capabilities by enabling it to transmit Blackmagic RAW and ProRes RAW data over HDMI to compatible recording devices.
The primary objective of this firmware release is to enhance the versatility of the Lumix G9 II, making it more adaptable to various workflow requirements. Once updated, the camera will gain the capability to output RAW video to external recorders from Blackmagic Design and Atomos, in BRAW and ProRes RAW formats, respectively.
Support for Various Resolutions and Formats With the new update, the G9 II will support sending out 5.7K, C4K, 5.8K (4:3), and 4.4K (4:3) resolutions in 12-bit RAW format. This output is compatible with Blackmagic Video Assist 5-inch 12G HDR and the Blackmagic Video Assist 7-inch 12G HDR external recorders, using the Blackmagic RAW (BRAW) format.
Editing and Playback Requirements To handle the footage recorded in this new format, users will need DaVinci Resolve or DaVinci Resolve Studio for playback. Similarly, editing Blackmagic RAW data will require DaVinci Resolve Studio. Panasonic also recommends checking the firmware of the Blackmagic Video Assist recorders to ensure compatibility with the new camera output.
Bitrate Recommendations for Optimal Recording For optimal recording quality, Panasonic suggests a constant bitrate of 5:1 or lower when recording in C4K resolution at 120p or 100p, and 8:1 or lower when using SD cards, especially in 5.7K resolution at 60p or 50p.
Extended Compatibility with Atomos Recorders Additionally, the firmware update enables the G9 II to output the same range of resolutions and frame rates in 12-bit RAW over HDMI when connected to Atomos devices like the Ninja V, Ninja V+, Ninja, Ninja Ultra, Shogun, Shogun Ultra, and Shogun Connect, recording in Apple ProRes RAW format. As with BRAW footage, editing this RAW video will require software that supports Apple ProRes RAW.